In a bid to improve access to prosthetic and orthotic services, the Rivers State Government (RSG) has partnered with the Nigerian Prosthetic, Orthotic and Orthopedic Technology Society (NPOOTS) to address gaps in care, particularly in rural communities.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, represented by the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Vincent Nwachukwu, emphasised the need to raise public awareness and make these essential services more accessible to persons with limb deficiencies and mobility impairments across the state.
Dr. Oreh urged NPOOTS to maximise their professional expertise in promoting the benefits of prosthetics and orthotics, describing the services as “life-saving and transformative” for beneficiaries.
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She also highlighted the state government’s plans, under Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to integrate prosthetic and orthotic services into primary and secondary health facilities and institutionalise them across all healthcare levels.
The event also featured the presentation of free artificial limbs to ten beneficiaries, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities directly.
In recognition of her contributions to the health sector, Dr. Oreh was presented with an award celebrating her impact at both the state and global levels.
The partnership between the Rivers State Government and NPOOTS is seen as a major step toward ensuring that residents in underserved and rural areas have improved access to prosthetic and orthotic care, enhancing their independence and quality of life.
